The following information is a summary and review based on Dr. Candy’s professional experience and recommendations. Any summary or statement has not been provided nor influenced by the manufacturer.
As a holistic veterinarian, I often talk with pet parents about keeping their dog’s heart strong. Heart health affects everything from energy to longevity, so it’s worth giving it extra care. One supplement I recommend for many dogs is Cardio-Plus® by Standard Process.
This whole-food based formula blends organ extracts, vitamins, and herbs that work together to support cardiovascular function. Let’s break down what it does, what’s inside, and how it can fit into your dog’s care plan.
Key Benefits of Cardio-Plus® for Dogs
Cardio-Plus is more than just a “heart vitamin.” Its carefully chosen ingredients offer support across several body systems:
- Supports the heart muscle: Hawthorn berry and bovine heart PMG™ extract help maintain strong, efficient heart function.
- Encourages healthy circulation: Nutrients in the formula promote good blood flow, which delivers oxygen and energy throughout the body.
- Strengthens immunity: Spleen and liver extracts, plus natural antioxidants, give the immune system a boost.
- Aids digestion: Porcine stomach and duodenum provide natural enzymes that help your dog absorb nutrients better.
- Improves energy levels: B-vitamins such as riboflavin and niacin support cellular energy production, keeping your dog active and alert.
What’s Inside: Ingredient Breakdown
Here’s a closer look at the main ingredients and why they matter:
- Bovine Heart PMG™ Extract: Supports the structure and function of heart cells.
- Hawthorn Berry: Traditionally used to support blood pressure and overall heart strength.
- Bovine Liver: Rich in iron and B-vitamins for energy and red blood cell health.
- Porcine Stomach & Duodenum: Provide natural digestive enzymes to aid nutrient absorption.
- Nutritional Yeast: A natural source of B-vitamins and antioxidants.
- Bovine & Ovine Spleen: Support immune resilience and healthy blood function.
- Vitamins & Minerals: Vitamin E, selenium, and riboflavin act as antioxidants and protect heart tissue from free-radical damage.
Health Issues Where Cardio-Plus May Help
I often consider Cardio-Plus for dogs with:
- Early or age-related heart disease
- Congestive heart failure (to help manage symptoms)
- Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats)
- Senior dogs who need extra cardiovascular support
How it works:
- Strengthens heart muscle performance
- Improves circulation and oxygen delivery
- Provides antioxidant protection against cell damage
Important: This supplement is not a cure. It should be used alongside veterinary care, diet, and lifestyle changes for best results.
Dosage & How to Give It
Cardio-Plus comes in small tablets that are easy to give. General guidelines are:
- Small dogs (1–20 lbs): 1 tablet twice daily
- Medium dogs (21–50 lbs): 2 tablets twice daily
- Large dogs (51+ lbs): 3 tablets twice daily
Ways to give it:
- Directly like a treat (some dogs like the flavor)
- Crushed and mixed into food
Always check with your veterinarian for the exact dosage your dog needs.
Possible Side Effects & Precautions
Most dogs tolerate Cardio-Plus very well. Still, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Mild digestive upset (loose stool or vomiting) may occur when starting. This usually improves as the body adjusts.
- Beef allergy caution: The formula contains bovine extracts, so it’s not suitable for dogs sensitive to beef.
- Watch for signs of allergic reaction: itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
Always store the bottle out of reach and in a cool, dry place. If your dog gets more than the recommended amount, call your veterinarian.
Holistic Care for Heart Health
Supplements like Cardio-Plus work best as part of a bigger plan. I often pair them with:
- Balanced, whole-food nutrition
- Cold laser therapy to improve circulation and reduce inflammation in older dogs
- Regular exercise tailored to your dog’s age and condition
- Routine checkups and holistic consultations to track progress
Where to Find Cardio-Plus®
I recommend purchasing directly from a trusted veterinary source. You can order Cardio-Plus® for Dogs through my online store at Journeys Holistic Life, where I carry only the products I personally use in my practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cardio-Plus® is a whole-food based supplement designed to support your dog’s heart and circulation. It combines organ extracts, vitamins, and antioxidants that work together to nourish the cardiovascular system and promote overall vitality. You can find Cardio-Plus® directly through my store at Journeys Holistic Life, where I only carry products I trust and use in my own practice.
Cardio-Plus® works by providing targeted nutrients that strengthen the heart muscle, encourage healthy blood flow, and protect cells from damage. Key ingredients like hawthorn berry and bovine heart extract help maintain normal rhythm and function, while B-vitamins and antioxidants support energy and resilience.
Dosage depends on your dog’s size and individual needs:
– Small dogs (1–20 lbs): 1 tablet twice daily
– Medium dogs (21–50 lbs): 2 tablets twice daily
– Large dogs (51+ lbs): 3 tablets twice daily
These are general guidelines. Always check with your veterinarian or schedule a holistic consultation so we can tailor the plan for your dog.
Most dogs tolerate Cardio-Plus® very well. Occasionally, a dog may experience mild digestive upset (such as loose stool) when first starting. This usually improves as their body adjusts. If you notice ongoing stomach issues, reduce the dose or pause the supplement and consult your veterinarian. Dogs with beef sensitivities should not use this product, since it contains bovine extracts.
Cardio-Plus® is formulated for dogs. Cats have very different nutritional needs, so I do not recommend giving it to them. If you’d like heart support for your cat, reach out to your holistic veterinarian for safe alternatives.
